30 April 2009

Rue Longue has two medieval portes, one at each end. Here we see Porte Saint-Julien at the eastern end of the street - ie nearest to Italy. The original name was Porta Julia. With both entrances closed, the town was protected from invaders.

Later, in 1687, a chain barred the entrance and a tax had to be paid to the Count of Ventimiglia by merchants who wanted to sell their wares in Menton. This import duty was known as the 'droit de chaîne.'

You see, Jilly, I have never watched Porte Sain Julien on this side. I used to come from Rue Longue, then, get out of the Old Town without turning back. That's a surprise, because it's more beautiful from outside than seen from inside.